Uncategorized

IS INEC’s CERTIFICATE OF RETURN FOR SALE?

Published

6 years ago

May 13, 2019

With the recent issuance of a certificate of return to billionaire politician, Prince Ned Nwoko of Delta North Senatorial District by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), despite a pending appeal before the Court of Appeal in Abuja, and having been served a stay of execution on the judgement of the Federal High Court, Abuja, it is clear that the electoral body has been unduly influenced by the billionaire politician who prides himself in using his money to achieve whatever he wants.

Recall that the April 3, 2019 horrendous Federal High Court judgement by Justice Ahmed Abubakar against Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, who billionaire Prince Ned Nwoko contested against in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial primary election for Delta North senatorial district, directed the PDP to publish the name of Ned Nwoko as the candidate for the election; an order already overtaken by events. Sincec there was no consequential order to INEC to issue a certificate of return to Ned Nwoko, the question begging for an answer is: on what legal foundation did INEC erect its decision on? Having been served all appeal processes, one wonders where INEC derived its powers to issue certificate of return to Ned Nwoko.

To set the records straight, this is a pre-election matter. The PDP primary election for Delta north senatorial ticket was held on October 2, 2018 in Asaba, Delta State. In that particular election which was adjudged to be transparent by INEC and the party, Prince Ned Nwoko secured 452 votes while Senator Peter Nwaoboshi polled 506 votes. In that election, INEC gave their seal of approval just as the PDP. In an event the billionaire Prince was dissatisfied with the outcome of the primary election; he is expected by law to file his case within 14 days to a court of competent jurisdiction, but that was not done. Instead Ned Nwoko went forum shopping by approaching an FCT High Court in Kubwa, a court that lacked territorial jurisdiction over the matter. The law makes it clear that you cannot take a pre-election matter from one state to another state’s court. It is worthy to note that even at the FCT high court, Nwoko also filled his case out of time. He filled on the 19th of October 2019; three days out of time. The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria allows the challenge of all primary elections to be brought before any court of competent jurisdiction within 14 days after the conduct of the election.

On December 10, 2018, the date fixed for judgement by the FCT high court, Prince Ned Nwoko, having realized that he erred on the issue of jurisdiction, filled through his lawyers for withdrawal and discontinuation of the case. The case was eventually struck out in open court by the trial judge, meaning the case never existed judicially. However, on December 11, 2018, Ned Nwoko quickly filled the case again at the Federal High Court in Abuja which was 56 days out of time.

Instructive to note is the fact that the case also came by way of originating summons which implies that everything in connection to the case must be done via sworn affidavits. This also meant that the trial judge did not have the right to ask any of the parties to evidence any material since the case came by way of originating summon.

An errant Justice Ahmed Abubakar who presided over the case at the Federal High Court made strange pronouncements. For the avoidance of doubt, this is a case that was earlier discontinued for lack of jurisdiction but Justice Abubakar insisted that since there was an initial filing of the case before an FCT high court, (a state high court), even though the case was discontinued and struck out for lack of jurisdiction, the court which dismissed the case had jurisdiction to try the matter, and as such he would borrow the filing time in the dismissed case. In so doing, he turned a High court into an Appellate court.

During the trial, Justice Abubakar had asked the PDP to present the ballot papers used in the primary election, which the party declined because the party is only allowed to keep primary election materials for only 14 days, and if no suit emanates within the 14 days, the party has no business keeping the ballot papers. The party made it clear that it is not as if it does not

have the ballot papers but that the nature of the case did not allow them to drop anything for scrutiny.

Ned Nwoko went as far as presenting ballot papers in court which were not given to him by the PDP. The party objected the admissibility of the ballot papers since they were not given to Prince Nwoko by the party.This is the party that conducted the election coming out to tell Prince Ned the ballot papers did not come from them. This leaves one to wonder the basis upon which Justice Abubakar went ahead to admit it as evidence and eventually ruled that Ned won the case. Only a blind man will not see that the only thing that could have made the judge to give such a horrendous judgement is the fact that the extra-ordinary happened. Prince Ned Nwoko, notorious for bragging of his capacity to buy his way, succeeded in creating the eight wonder of the world by securing himself a judgement that lacked judicial ethos.

On the other hand, why should INEC, after been duly served a notice of appeal; stay of execution, and record of proceeding duly transmitted to the appeal court, went ahead to issue Ned Nwoko a certificate of return when the judgement did not direct them to do so? The question on the minds of many is what could have happened? With a man who brags openly and claimed that even the appeal court is wrapped under his armpit, and that the case before the appeal is a foregone and concluded matter, could it be that justice in present Nigeria is for the highest bidder? Is it an indication that without money to bribe your way through, one cannot get justice? Although INEC has chosen this inglorious part even when the matter is pending at the court of Appeal, all hope for justice is not lost since Nigerians have implicit hope that the revered Justices of the Appeal court shall rise to the occasion and redirect the wheel of justice to restore sanity and orderliness to the sacred temple of justice. Let justice be done, and seen to be done.

Mathew Aigbovo

A Public Affairs Analyst writes from Abuja

Uncategorized

Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos

Published

3 days ago

December 19, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos

In the pulsating heart of Lagos, the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos

stands as a beacon of unity and empowerment for female artists. This dynamic association, renowned for its diversity in musical genres, prides itself on bringing together talented women from all walks of musical life. Today, we celebrate its esteemed members, who number twenty-nine strong, each contributing uniquely to the vibrant tapestry of the Club.

Leading The Charge :

At the forefront of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos Club is Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola PQ1st (Omo Opeki), the President. Her leadership is a source of inspiration for many, guiding the Club with a vision of inclusivity and excellence. Supporting her is Alhaja Queen Halimot Ayinla Omowura, the Vice President, whose dedication ensures the smooth operation and growth of the association.

Alhaja Badirat Adunni Olaniyan (Just Like That) serves as the Treasurer, managing the financial health of the Club with precision. The Social Secretary, Alhaja Aminat Babalola Balogun (Omotayebi, Iya Kekere Eko), brings vibrancy and connectivity, fostering a sense of community among the members. Asiwaju Yeye Tosin Eniba (Fuji Queen), the Secretary, ensures that the administrative duties are handled efficiently, supporting the organizational backbone of the Club.

Valued Members :

The Club’s strength lies in its diverse membership, each woman a luminary in her own right. The following are the distinguished members of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos :

– Afonja Gbajoba

– Bisi Ewa Ogo Jesu

– Alhaja Jelilat Dupytie

– Ejire Akewi Oba

– Alhaja Aminat Itojuobi

– Alh. Fatimo Oseni Salawa Onigbongbo

– Alh. Tawakalitu Alagbada Tokotaya to nko Fuji

– Aishat Irepo Obi

– Olaleye Rahemot Arike (Akomolesin Agbaye)

– Alh. Dasola Abeke

– Ewebiyi Iya Oriki

– Ameerat Oninure

– Alh. Azeezat Otibiya

– Alh. Rukayat Bashirimi

– Alh. Mujidat Damilola

– Alh. Fatima Aljafaria, an Elder whose wisdom and experience enrich the Club.

– Alh. Taibat Omo Tayenfe

– Queen Muheenat Ijaodola

– Sakirat Yeye Oge

– Alh. Mariam Akiki Akanbi

– Queen Abebi Ayala

– Aweni Adepeju (Aweni Fuji)

– Fatimo Ajoke Cinderella

– Alh. Hafsat Sideeq, another Elder whose guidance is deeply valued.

A Legacy of Excellence :

The Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos is more than just an association; it is a legacy of excellence, a network of powerful voices that harmonize to uplift and inspire. Each member, from the executives to the distinguished members, plays a crucial role in shaping the cultural and musical landscape of Lagos and beyond. Their combined efforts create a symphony of collaboration and mutual support, ensuring that the future of female musicians in Nigeria remains bright and promising.

As we celebrate these remarkable women, we also look forward to the new heights the Club will achieve under their leadership and unity. Their commitment to their craft and each other stands as a testament to the incredible power of music and the unwavering strength of women.

Uncategorized

Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu

Published

6 days ago

December 16, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu
… As Apapa Command Honours Outstanding Stakeholders

By Ifeoma Ikem

Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR has commended the Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi for the command’s outstanding revenue collection of over N2.2tr and urged him to sustain the tempo.

CGC said this in Apapa on Friday at the command’s end of the year party and award ceremony also harped on the need for compliance and synergies as necessary strategies to greater productivity at the port. According to him, compliance is a competitive advantage.

He was represented by Deputy Comptroller General Caroline Niagwan, DCG Tariff and Trade, Adeniyi congratulated the Customs Area Controller and all the officers and men of Apapa Area Command for the milestone achieved in revenue collection to the tune of N2.2tr and still counting which has earned the command multiple accolades

“It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate a shared commitment to compliance and excellence in trade. This award ceremony is a testament to your dedication to ethical business practices, adherence to regulations, and unwavering support for the principles that drive Nigeria’s economic growth.

“Compliance is not merely a requirement; it is a competitive advantage. It fosters transparency, reduces operational risks, and strengthens the trust between businesses and regulatory authorities. It also positions compliant stakeholders to enjoy streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and access to the numerous benefits that come with being recognized as trusted trade partners.

“As a Service, we understand that sustaining compliance can sometimes require capacity building, especially as global trade evolves.

To this end, the Service is committed to providing the necessary training, technical assistance, and partnerships that will empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain this high standard.

“Our goal is to ensure that every stakeholder remains competitive,vinnovative, and aligned with global best practices.
By working together, we can unlock even greater opportunities for growth. Compliant stakeholders not only contribute to national revenue but also drive economic development, attract foreign investments, and enhance Nigeria’s position in international trade” Adeniyi said

In his welcome speech, Comptroller Olomu expressed appreciation to the CGC and the customs management team for always providing the direction and inspiration to the command in it’s drive to meet government’s expectations .

He described the end of year party as many things rolled up in one as it strengthens the stakeholders bond as a community of government and private sector collaborators working together for the betterment of Nigeria;

it’s also to celebrate together as the year 2024 ends and honour those whose outstanding performances contributed in shaping the command’s achievements in 2024.

Comptroller Olomu said despite the challenges of low trade volume, the command is able to achieve it’s target which is a reflection of officers commitment and dedication to duty

He added that in line with the policy thrust of the CGC, the command utilised it’s relationship with stakeholders to achieve it’s goal this year.

According to him improving on stakeholder engagement has become an operational template the Comptroller General of Customs has impressed on the officers and expressed joy to announce that it has proven to be a masterstroke towards enhanced compliance.

Comptroller Olomu said “Compliance is no doubt the bedrock of all customs achievements in areas of revenue collection, anti smuggling and legitimate trade facilitation. Our approach to regurlarly engage our sister government agencies has raised our degree of intelligence sharing towards a common national interest.

“Let me use this period to thank the NPA, DSS, NDLEA, NAQS,Port Health, Police, Immigration and other sister government agencies for their consistent collaboration in 2024. They are indeed an integral part of the command’s success story in 2024. I urge them to stay on board let’s do it again in 2025.

“With our port users, we maintained regularly enlightenment meetings, faster trade dispute resolution mechanism and consistent appraisal of feedbacks to keep improving on our responsibilities.

“There have been positive fallouts of our regular interface with our stakeholders. This is evident in our collection of N2..2tr revenue and still counting, zeroing in on the minority that attempt smuggling by curbing their activities with seizures. We are fostering inclusivity and this will continue in 2025

“We have ensured no container , import or export consignment goes through our control without due diligence of proper examination. This has been the foundation of our impeccable enforcement drive.

“We are honouring some of our officers and stakeholders for their outstanding performances in the year 2024 . I want to urge the awardees to see this as a call for more commitment to surpass their best outputs. There is no end to improvement

“This should also be a challenge to those who didn’t make the award list this time, I urge them to keep improving with a promise that their inputs shall not go unnoticed for due recognition” he concluded

Among those recognised with various awards are APM Terminals, Sifax Group, ENL Consortium, Dangote, Talod Ocean Airfreight and Princess Chi Ezeh the CEO of Munah Sylva Nigeria Limited

The command also recognised serving and retired officers for their contributions to it’s overall successes in 2024.

celebrity radar - gossips

Bullion Records; GyC Release Debut EP Album, A Billion Things

Published

1 week ago

December 12, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Bullion Records; GyC Release Debut EP Album, A Billion Things

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Bullion Records, one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing record labels, has officially released its highly anticipated debut EP album, A Billion Things, sung by its sensational artist, GyC. Born Fortune Kingsley, GyC is making waves in the Nigerian music industry, and this five-track EP marks a significant milestone in his career and the label’s history.

The EP, which dropped today, Wednesday, December 12, 2024, features an eclectic mix of tracks, including Mailo, Shayo, Woman, Kpang Kpang, and Kokan Aye. The standout track, Kokan Aye, features collaborations with Nigerian music icons 9ice and Eedris Abdul Kareem, further solidifying GyC’s place in the music scene.

Speaking about the project, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, Chairman and CEO of Bullion Records, described the album as a blend of inspiration and artistry. “Every track in this album is not only a masterpiece but also delivers profound messages. From love to resilience, and from societal consciousness to celebration, A Billion Things resonates with listeners on different levels,” he said.

The production team behind the album includes some of Nigeria’s most talented producers. YoungSmith worked on the hits Shayo, Woman, and Mailo, while Philkeyz produced the electrifying Kpang Kpang. Shockerbeat added his signature touch to Kokan Aye, ensuring the album delivers a diverse yet cohesive sound.

Mr. Elegbede Ajibola, the entertainment director at Bullion Records, emphasized the label’s strategic timing for the album’s release. “We deliberately chose December to launch this EP because it’s a season when people connect through music. We want fans and good music lovers worldwide to vibe to these amazing tracks during the festive period,” Elegbede noted.

GyC, the star of the moment, expressed his gratitude to the team behind the album’s success. “This project is the result of collective effort and dedication. I want to thank the executive members of Bullion Records for their unwavering support. Special appreciation also goes to the incredible music producers who brought my vision to life,” he said.

The release of A Billion Things marks a bold statement from Bullion Records as it cements its position in the Nigerian music industry. With a lineup of motivational, soulful, and dance-worthy tracks, the EP is expected to become a favorite among music lovers globally.

Fans can now stream or purchase the album on all major music platforms.